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The difference between say, tell and speak

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• Ability — if it’s about ability, “talk” is preferred: “cats can’t talk”, “when I’m drunk I lose my ability to talk”. Note that “speak” is allowed but is less popular;

• Languages — use “speak”: “I speak English”;

• Action — covered in answers above; both words can be used; “speak” is mostly about single-direction, while “talk” usually refers a conversation (and is less formal);

• Express information — use “say” or “tell”: “I told her that I love her”. Here, “I love her” is the information being expressed. “Say” can also be used, but it connotates a single-time action. Compare: “I said that the discussion is over and hung up the phone.”

Imperative usually follows the rules above, but due to an extended popularity, here’s a brief:
• Extended time or dialogue — “Talk to me.”

• Long monologue — “Tell me about your problem.”

• Short monologue — “Say something!”

• Requesting a certain attribute of speaking process — “Speak slowly please.”

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